Willard Fiske Lochridge

Willard F. Lochridge
February 2,1940- November 13, 2025

Willard Fiske Lochridge, beloved father and pioneering broadcasting executive, died peacefully at his home on November 13th in Wickenburg, Arizona. Born in Illinois in 1940 and raised in Connecticut, he graduated from Staples High School in Westport in 1958. Even as a teenager, Will showed a knack for initiative and persuasion - including the now-legendary story of when, at fifteen, he managed to contact Bo Diddley's manager, book him for a school concert, and arrange pickup at the train station by his mother.

He married his high school sweetheart, Suzy Heyn, in 1958 and headed off to the U.S Air Force. Due to poor eyesight, he was reassigned from radar training to the role of a "rescue swimmer," a job he loved because it allowed him to serve as the lifeguard at the pool on base. Will returned home and began working for Kraft Foods. Before long, he followed his father into broadcasting sales, where his quick wit, confidence, and natural leadership propelled him forward.

In the early 1970s, Will became the General Manager at ABC-owned radio station, WRIF in Detroit - then operating out of two trailers, one for DJs and one for sales and operations. Under his leadership, WRIF climbed to the top of the Detroit ratings.

In 1973, at the age of 33, he was transferred to New York to serve as Vice President and General Manager of WPLJ. During his tenure, WPLJ became one of the most prominent rock stations in the country and home to well-known voices including Jim Kerr, Carole Miller, Pat St. John, Jimmy Fink, and Tony Pigg.

ABC later moved him to Houston. Texas to run KAUM before bringing him back to the East Coast to help guide several major ABC Radio Network initiatives. He contributed to the development of Live from the Hard Rock Café and worked closely with Casey Kasem on American Top 40. He later joined NBC Radio's The Source.

In 1988, after years in corporate broadcasting, Will and Suzy purchased a small radio station in Wickenburg, Arizona. A few years later, they shifted direction again and opened The Refried Bean, a Mexican décor store that became a local favorite. Will thrived there, greeting customers, telling stories, and connecting with people - something he did effortlessly throughout his life.

Will retired during the pandemic. Retirement suited him; he enjoyed time around town and at the Elks Lodge often with a glass of chardonnay (with ice), and playing bingo.

He was predeceased by his wife, Suzy; his sons, Willy and Jeff; his brother, Ben; and his granddaughter, Jenifer. He is survived by his daughters, Diana, Christie, and Julie; his brother, Roger, and sisters, Laurie and Daryl; his grandchildren, Dylan, Drew, and Khristine; and his great-grandchildren, Isaac, Alex, Derrik, Payton, Julian, Elijah, Isabella and Chloe.

A public memorial will be held on Thursday, November 20th from 2-4pm at the Wickenburg Funeral home. A private celebration of his life will be held in Connecticut next year.

Will loved animals of all kinds. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to the Wickenburg Humane Society.